If you are experiencing difficulty sleeping, staying awake during the day, or imbalances with your sleep-wake cycle, it may be a sign of a sleep disorder. For over 40 years, more than 100 specific sleep disorders have been identified by the American Sleep Disorders Association and understanding these conditions has become increasingly complex. At Primary Medical Group, we understand the importance of a good night’s sleep and encourage our patients to get help if they think they may be suffering from a sleep disorder.
Types of Sleep Disorders
Insomnia
Insomnia is a chronic condition that affects up to one-third of adults. It can be classified into three main subtypes: sleep-onset insomnia, which is difficulty falling asleep; sleep maintenance insomnia, which is difficulty staying asleep during the night; and mixed insomnia, a combination of both. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms at least three times a week for at least three months, it is likely that you are suffering from insomnia and should contact a local physician for further information.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can cause difficulty breathing and snoring, as well as excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue. There are two types of sleep apnea, obstructive (OSA) which is caused by physical obstruction to the upper airway, and central (CSA), which occurs when the brain stops sending signals to the muscles that control breathing. Risk factors for sleep apnea include obesity, back sleeping, large tonsils/adenoids, and medical problems with the brain stem. Treatment options typically involve Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) or Bi-Level Positive Air Pressure (BiPAP) therapy.
Narcolepsy
If you find yourself excessively tired even after getting a good night’s sleep, you may have narcolepsy. Narcolepsy can cause “sleep attacks” that usually last for a few minutes, as well as problems with falling asleep and staying asleep. It affects about 1 in 2,000 people in the U.S. Narcolepsy Type 1 is often accompanied by cataplexy, a sudden loss of muscle tone that can cause people to slump over or fall when they nod off. If you think you may be experiencing any of these symptoms, get in contact with one of our Primary Medical providers for more information on how to manage this sleep disorder.
Restless Leg Syndrome
If you are feeling throbbing, itching, or other painful sensations in your legs and have an urgent need to move them while resting, you may have Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) – a sleep-related movement disorder that affects 7-10% of the U.S population. Unfortunately, there is no cure for RLS, but our team at Primary Medical Group can help you manage your symptoms through lifestyle changes, moderate exercise, and nighttime stretching.
At Primary Medical, we understand how important a good night’s sleep is for your overall health and wellbeing. Our team of experts are committed to helping you diagnose and manage any potential sleep disorders you may be suffering from. We provide comprehensive assessments to determine underlying causes, as well as therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), lifestyle changes, medications, and more to help you take steps towards improved sleep health. Depending on your individual needs, we may recommend one or a combination of these treatments.
Get in touch with our physicians today to discuss the best options for you and begin taking steps toward improved sleep health. To get help becoming a patient please contact our Patient Relations Team at (951) 225-6808. If you need help booking an appointment, please call (951) 225-6808. We look forward to helping you on your healthcare journey.